The destinies of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, the Republic of Benin, and South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers will be determined this Tuesday evening, according to Soccernet.ng.
Eric Chelle’s Nigerian squad faces a crucial home match in Uyo against Gernot Rohr’s Benin team, while South Africa’s Bafana Bafana must secure a win over Rwanda to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
However, even if Nigeria triumphs, South Africa’s victory would guarantee Bafana Bafana a straightforward path to the World Cup group stage.
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South Africa’s goalkeeper, Ronwen Hayden Williams, has expressed uncertainty about his team’s chances of reaching the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2010. This skepticism stems from FIFA’s decision to deduct three points from South Africa after fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their match against Lesotho.
“Naturally, doubts have crept in. Just a month ago, our qualification seemed certain until FIFA penalized us by removing three benin-south-africa/” title=”…: Thrilling Twists in Group C After Nigeria, …, and … Showdowns”>points due to the ineligible appearance of Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho in March,” Williams told Sportswire.
Williams Unfazed by Benin’s Prospects Against Nigeria
The 33-year-old goalkeeper likens the upcoming clash with Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium to a déjà vu moment. The stadium holds bittersweet memories for South African supporters, who once celebrated qualification for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations after a draw with Sierra Leone in 2012. However, due to CAF’s application of the head-to-head rule over goal difference, South Africa missed out on the tournament they were set to host.
“I remain optimistic that things will turn in our favor. People need to hold onto hope. I’m a believer in miracles,” said the AFCON 2023 Golden Glove recipient.
“I recall 12 years ago, we were crunching numbers at Mbombela Stadium – and now, here we are again at the same venue. Perhaps this is our opportunity to amend past disappointments. I’m hopeful and confident the outcome will favor us.
“As for Nigeria’s match against Benin, I honestly don’t foresee Benin securing a positive result. Still, our focus remains on doing our part against Rwanda.
“We understand the significance and difficulty of this fixture, but our squad is prepared to face Rwanda. They are the only team to have defeated us in this qualifying campaign, and we know the challenge they present.
“There are many factors working in our favor, and the nation should keep faith. Support the team, send positive energy – we notice it all.
“Don’t lose hope until the final whistle. Maybe this time, fortune will smile upon us, especially since we’re returning to Mbombela. It’s a chance to right the wrongs from over a decade ago.
“Regarding the points deduction, I believe it happened for a reason. Now, it’s up to us to unite, fight, and prove our strength as a team,” concluded the three-time PSL champion.
The matches between Nigeria and Benin Republic, and South Africa versus Rwanda, will kick off simultaneously. For Nigeria to secure their spot in the World Cup, they must overcome Benin Republic, while hoping South Africa can defeat Rwanda on home turf at Mbombela.
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